Xcel Energy Faces Community Opposition on Solar Farm Plans in Wisconsin

Hudson, Wisconsin — Xcel Energy officials provided an update on their plans for a solar farm in St. Croix County, which has faced significant community pushback. At a recent public meeting, officials announced that they have secured agreements with private landowners to lease all land necessary for the project.

The first phase of the facility, a 5,000-acre solar field, remains on schedule. Xcel Energy plans to also consider beginning construction of a battery energy storage system sooner than initially planned. This project aims to replace the energy output that will be lost when a coal-fueled power plant near Stillwater closes in 2028.

By year’s end, Xcel Energy will apply for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. The application and review process could extend up to 18 months and will include an environmental assessment by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, offering residents multiple opportunities for input.

Community response to the announcement has been largely negative. A petition opposing the solar facility gathered thousands of signatures, with residents voicing concerns about potential effects on the local environment and wildlife.

In addressing these worries, Xcel Energy officials assured the community that the solar project would have minimal impact on property values and would not pose risks of toxic material leaks. Additionally, they committed to efforts aimed at reducing any impact on area wildlife.

Company representatives also highlighted that the project would create hundreds of union jobs during development while generating over $1 million in annual payments to St. Croix County and surrounding towns.